In many parts of Asia and the Pacific, farming is an indispensable part of the rural economy, accounting for 29 percent of GDP and 65 percent of all employment. To secure the livelihoods of rural populations, generate decent income and provide a basis for inclusive growth and poverty reduction, we will need to support farming systems that are viable in the long term – particularly for smallholder farms.
Climate change, biodiversity loss, poverty, health issues: what we eat and how we produce our food is shaping the face of our planet and of our societies like no other human activity. The hidden costs of cheap food are mind-blowing. At the same time, food is currently one of the most powerful levers for changing things for good. No need to be dogmatic or stop enjoying food. But re-thinking the way we look at food, and re-shaping the rules of the game that determine food systems, will have an enormous impact.
Every day you have to eat, just like the other 7.2 billion people on the planet. By 2050, at least 2 billion more people will join you. In this short video we explore the reasons why we need to transform the way we eat and consume our food. You can participate in change, too: ask yourself about the food that you produce or eat, eat a balanced diet and reduce your food waste.